Looking forward to the new tow cars of 2014

Lizzie PopeDigital Editor

Practical Caravan's very own tow car expert David Motton tells us why there’s lots to look forward to in 2014 – and tells us which new cars to look out for

The new Nissan Qashqai has to be one of the most anticipated new models of 2014

As I write this the champagne is chilling in the fridge, ready to be opened at midnight. For tow car drivers, there's plenty to look forward to in 2014.

High on my list is the Ssangyong Rexton W. It's an update on the old Rexton rather than an all-new car, but there's been a gap in the market for a big, heavy and inexpensive 4x4 since Kia pushed the Sorento upmarket. With prices starting from £21,995, I look forward to driving it in January.

It may not be as large or weighty as the Ssangyong, but the new Nissan Qashqai has to be one of the most anticipated new models of 2014. The first-generation car started the trend towards crossovers (cars which combine elements of regular family hatchbacks with MPV practicality or SUV toughness), and the new model promises improvements in just about every area. You can pick one up from £17,595, with sales starting next month.

The Nissan won't have things all its own way, with the revised Skoda Yeti going on sale in January. It's a car I've always enjoyed towing with, and will now come in two versions: the regular Yeti and the Yeti Outdoor, the latter with chunkier styling and the option of four-wheel drive. Prices start from £16,600.

For seven-seat MPV buyers, the Citroën Grand C4 Picasso will be worth a look, with prices starting from £19,200. I've never particularly liked towing with the previous generation C4 Picasso or Grand C4 Picasso, but having driven the smaller five-seat C4 Picasso a few months ago, my gut feeling is the new models will be much better to tow with.

There are plenty more new models joining these four in showrooms over the next 12 months, which should make 2014 another busy year...